Weather across the nation: 1/10/13

Severe weather developed over the Lower Mississippi River Valley on Thursday, while heavy snow showers moved through the Intermountain West, Northern Rockies, and Great Basin.

A low pressure system over the Southern Plains advanced northeastward and created a strong frontal boundary over the Lower Mississippi River. A warm front stretched eastward over the Southeast, while a cold front followed closely behind and moved eastward from eastern Texas.

Abundant moisture poured in from the Gulf of Mexico, which supplied energy into this system and allowed for severe thunderstorms to develop over Louisiana and Mississippi. The region saw heavy rainfall and strong winds, with even some tornado development.

Midday rainfall totals surpassed 2 inches in many areas, with the heaviest rainfall reported in Alexandria Esle, La., with a midday total of 4.02 inches. Strong winds blew down multiple trees and power lines across Mississippi. A tornado touch down was spotted at an industrial plant near Plaquemine, La.

Near the center of the low pressure system, precipitation continued as it moved northward from the Southern Plains and into the Mid-Mississippi Valley. Widespread rain showers stretched from Kansas, into Indiana, with areas of snow showers in Nebraska and Iowa.

Meanwhile in the West, a broad low pressure system moved over the western states and created heavy snowfall across Idaho, Montana, Nevada, and Utah. Snowfall accumulation for Idaho has ranged from 3 to 8 inches and western Montana reported midday snowfall accumulation from 5 to 10 inches.

Heavier snowfall fell at the highest mountain peaks and passes. High wind advisories were issued along the leading edge of this system as winds gusted from 40 to 60 mph. Strongest winds were reported at Ogden Peak which is in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah at 9,570 feet with 95 mph gusts.

ON THIS DATE....... Snow in Los Angeles? On this date in 1949, snow was reported in parts of metropolitan Los Angeles. Burbank reported 4.7 inches of snow, while Long Beach and Laguna Beach also received a dusting. San Diego received snow for the first time since 1882.